Pacific Staghorn Sculpin
NamePacific Staghorn Sculpin
Scientific NameLeptocottus armatus
Common NamesPacific Staghorn Sculpin, Staghorn Sculpin
FamilyCottidae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, North America West Coast, Alaska, Baja California
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)40-60
pH Range7.8-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarge, robust, fast-moving cold-water marine fish (that cannot be swallowed), Other large, non-aggressive cold-water bottom dwellers (with caution)
Description
The Pacific Staghorn Sculpin is a bottom-dwelling marine fish characterized by its mottled brown and tan camouflage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with rocky and sandy substrates. It possesses distinctive antler-like spines on its gill covers. This predatory species inhabits coastal waters, estuaries, and tide pools along the Pacific coast of North America.
